Different types of diabetes

The most common types of diabetes are Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational diabetes.

 

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition whereby the body produces no insulin. The immune system attacks the body, so the beta cells in the pancreas are destroyed. Therefore it is unable to make insulin, causing a severe lack of insulin. No one knows for certain why this happens, but the trigger is likely caused by a viral or other infection. It can happen to anyone and is not caused by anything someone did or didn’t do, or their lifestyle choices.

 

Type 2 diabetes develops when the body either does not make enough insulin to meet the body’s needs, or the insulin produced does not function properly. This is known as “insulin resistance”. The amount of insulin produced by the pancreas is insufficient to respond to the glucose in blood and over time can’t make enough to keep the blood glucose at normal levels. As a result, blood glucose level rises. Type 2 is often linked to lifestyle choices, being inactive or having a family history of Type 2.

 

The following risk factors increase the chances of developing Type 2 diabetes:

 Increase in age

Obesity

Physical inactivity
 

Gestational diabetes is high blood glucose that develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after giving birth. Like other types of diabetes, gestational diabetes occurs if your body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the extra needs in pregnancy.

Having gestational diabetes can cause problems for expectant mothers and their baby during and after birth. But expectant women can help control it by eating healthy foods, exercising and, if necessary, taking medication. Controlling blood glucose can prevent a difficult birth and keep mother and baby healthy.